Duisburg and Düsseldorf announce major water sports and river cruise developments

Düsseldorf is preparing for the 58th edition of the boot Düsseldorf trade fair, scheduled for January 23 to 31, 2027. Despite ongoing construction in Hall 9, organizers have implemented a protected, covered walkway to ensure seamless access between the North entrance and Halls 10, 11, and 12. The event is expected to host over 1,500 manufacturers, dealers, and destinations, featuring a dedicated sailing center and the ‘blue innovation dock’ in Hall 10 to showcase future technologies.

In Duisburg, the cruise line A-ROSA plans to launch river cruises from the city starting in 2027. Utilizing three ships, the initiative aims to host approximately 20,000 guests annually through 125 trips. Routes will include destinations such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Antwerp, and Brussels, as well as upstream travels through the Middle Rhine Valley toward cities like Cologne and Koblenz. Proponents suggest the location offers logistical advantages for visiting Benelux cities compared to traditional starting points like Cologne.